Would you recommend the Volvo S40 diesel?
Can you advise me on buying a Volvo S40? I do about 1,600 miles to work each month and I am thinking of getting a 2005 S40 diesel. Any problems with this car? Would you recommend it for heavy motorway mileage?
George Murphy (Mullagh Co Cavan)May 2016 Filed under: choosing used car
Expert answer
Hi George,
Yes, and I’m assuming you mean the 1.6-litre diesel model? It’s a very good engine – decently reliable and very economical and it needs long motorway miles to make sure that the diesel particulate filter doesn’t start clogging up. The particle filter also needs to be replaced at 120,000km. It needs a cam belt change every 160,000km, but you need to keep it checked at regular service time as the belt can stretch and slip. The water pump is also a weak point, so keep an eye on that. There are a few random electrical issues with these cars too, mostly to do with the ignition system and intermittent warning lights on the dashboard. They’re more niggles than serious problems though.
Oh, and don’t buy one without a full service history. That engine needs a steady diet of really high-quality oil at service time, or it can develop sludgy waste oil in delicate parts.
Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Advisor@neilmbriscoe